The Crinum of Downton Abbey

Victorian Britain was the epicenter of fashion, trends, politics, and horticulture.  Natural history and plants were serious studies, serious hobbies for the rich. Sailors, explorers, and traders brought plants from all over the world to tempt rich collectors. An abundant supply of coal meant hot-houses and conservatories allowed for tropical plant gardening. Those collectors who…

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Sand Dune Meadow; A Plea for Stewardship in Gardening

Our beautiful barrier islands have been landscaped beyond recognition. Typical “landscapes” seem designed to demonstrate that people can dominate nature. We can. We do. For a moment in time. But in making and keeping up typical landscapes, we’re doing harm to the life on the islands, in the soil and in the water. We can…

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Where Do You Grow Crinum?

Let’s build a Crinum map together!   Send pictures of your crinum lilies.  In the email subject line please type your city and state.   (Send your town even if you don’t have pictures). We’ll mark your town and post the picture to our map of Crinum Lovers!  (Don’t worry, we won’t post your name or address…

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Parking Gardens; Plants That That Fry & Flood

I was talking to this guy the other day, a great landscaper, who tries to be earth friendly, and he says he just doesn’t do jobs without an irrigation system.  “There’s just no way you can plant it and guarantee it will live.” Well, I can.  Here’s a link to a garden where we had…

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